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Introduced March 3, 2026 by Edward John Markey · Last progress March 3, 2026
Removes statutory exemptions that have insulated the Texas grid (ERCOT) from parts of the Federal Power Act and brings ERCOT and any previously exempt entities under FERC authority. Requires minimum interregional transfer capability (TTC) targets between ERCOT and neighboring regions, directs joint planning and timelines to meet those targets by January 1, 2035, and prioritizes use of existing rights-of-way, degraded lands, grid-enhancing technologies, registered apprenticeships, and prevailing wages. Increases the Transmission Facilitation Program borrowing authority to $3.5 billion and directs the Department of Energy to study cross-border grid interconnections with Mexico and report to Congress within one year.
The bill accelerates and funds expanded transmission and federal oversight to improve reliability and clean-energy integration—particularly for Texas and interregional flows—but does so at the cost of higher near-term bills and taxpayer exposure, potential local and environmental impacts, and some loss of state/local control.
Millions of electricity consumers in Texas and neighboring regions will likely see more reliable electricity and fewer large-scale outages because the bill brings ERCOT into FERC reliability rules, mandates minimum interregional transfer capabilities, and funds transmission buildout.
Consumers and the broader electricity system stand to gain greater access to wind, solar, geothermal, and other clean generation because expanded transmission capacity and financing make it easier to integrate renewables and lower wholesale costs over time.
Tribal, Indigenous, and environmental justice communities will get clearer legal recognition and stronger outreach requirements, improving their eligibility for programs and voice in siting decisions.
Electricity ratepayers and taxpayers face higher costs because large transmission projects and compliance under new FERC oversight can increase bills, and the federal financing program raises up to $3.5 billion of potential taxpayer liability.
State and local authorities, and some stakeholders in Texas, will see diminished local control and face regulatory uncertainty as ERCOT becomes subject to federal jurisdiction and FERC-imposed timelines.
Landowners, Tribal communities, and rural neighbors near proposed routes risk land‑use disruption, aesthetic and environmental impacts, and possible exclusion from remediation if narrow statutory definitions leave some sites ineligible for benefits.